The New Novel Marks Department of Lore’s Bold Entry into a Genre-Defining New Universe

Department of Lore, pioneers in multidisciplinary storytelling and neo-mythologies, have launched the Kickstarter campaign for MAYA: Seed Takes Root, the debut novel in the expansive sci-fi fantasy universe of MAYA.

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MAYA: Seed Takes Root

Created by filmmaker Anand Gandhi (Ship of Theseus, Tumbbad) and game designer Zain Memon (Shasn), the novel introduces a richly imagined world where minds are shaped, choices are manipulated, and futures are manufactured — often without anyone realizing it.

In MAYA, the divide between the powerful and the powerless is enforced through a shared dreamscape. When one person becomes free from this system, their actions could alter the fate of the entire world.

Backers of the now-live Kickstarter will be the first to access MAYA: Seed Takes Root, with the official release set for August 19, 2025. The campaign also offers exclusive art, lore, and early updates from the growing MAYA universe.

“The worldbuilding we did for Ship of Theseus was just the beginning,” said Gandhi. “With MAYA, we’re building a universe that spans mediums and ideas — and Seed Takes Root is where it all begins.”

MAYA: Seed Takes Root is the first of many interconnected stories across the MAYA universe, which will expand into films, games, graphic novels, toys, and immersive experiences.

“Designing games taught me how systems shape choices,” added Memon. “In MAYA, most characters don’t realize they’re part of a larger game they can’t control.”

MAYA: Seed Takes Root is now live on Kickstarter: https://go.entermaya.com

For more on the MAYA universe, visit: https://departmentoflore.com

Watch the latest trailer here. Additional assets can be found here.

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